Published on: 2025-06-28 | Written by: Dr. Ahlam ِAtef Al-Sa'i, consultant for cosmetic surgery and face and facial implants
Some parents believe that baby teeth don’t need treatment because they are “temporary,” but this belief is incorrect and may lead to long-term health issues.
Dr. Ahlam Atef El Saay, Consultant in Cosmetic Dentistry and Maxillofacial Implantology, explains that filling baby teeth is an important step in preserving the child’s oral health and preventing cavities from developing into infections or early tooth loss.
According to Dr. Ahlam Atef El Saay, baby teeth play a crucial role in:
Helping children eat and speak properly
Preserving space for permanent teeth
Preventing the spread of infection to roots or nearby teeth
Supporting healthy jaw and facial bone growth
Neglecting treatment of cavities in baby teeth can lead to more serious complications than just temporary pain.
Dr. Ahlam Atef El Saay says a baby tooth filling is needed in the following cases:
Visible decay or pain when eating
Cavities discovered during routine dental checkups
To protect the tooth from breaking or wearing down
After root treatment if the decay has reached deep layers
Yes. Dr. Ahlam Atef El Saay explains that the materials used for baby teeth fillings are different. Dentists choose either temporary or permanent fillings depending on the child’s age and the tooth’s location—ensuring comfort and ease of placement.
She emphasizes that regular dental checkups every six months help detect cavities early and avoid more complex treatments. She also recommends teaching children to brush daily with age-appropriate toothpaste.
Baby teeth aren’t temporary in importance—they lay the foundation for future oral health.
With regular checkups and proper care from an experienced doctor like Dr. Ahlam Atef El Saay, your child can maintain a safe and healthy smile from the very beginning.